The Royal Family’s unwavering commitment to tradition and history is encapsulated in everything from their regal titles and grand residences to the stunning array of jewellery and attire that have become emblematic over the years. Yet amid the plethora of long-standing customs, there lies a series of surprisingly relatable rituals – one such being their almost sacred adoration of afternoon tea.
Exposing details about this quintessentially Royal habit, Queen Camilla’s son, Tom Parker Bowles, shared insights into the intricacies of this cherished routine and its primary role within the daily lives of royals, including King Charles himself. “It’s of primary importance,” disclosed Parker Bowles during his chat with PEOPLE.
“It’s not just a cup of tea – it’s an entire meal. There are sandwiches, two different kinds of cake, scones, biscuits, shrimp and eggs.”
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These daily moments of respite stand in contrast to the sumptuous feasts of bygone eras – from Henry VIII’s opulent banquets to Edward VII’s eight-hour snack preparation – and provide an idyllic pause for the royals to refresh between their myriad obligations and official endeavours.
An intriguing detail from the new cookbook, “Cooking and the Crown: Royal Recipes from Queen Victoria to King Charles III”, which features 100 accessible recipes loved by the late Queen Elizabeth as well as King Charles and Camilla. The author, Tom Parker Bowles, told the media outlet: “It needs to be used, battered and stained,” and “I hope it gives readers a taste of British royal family life over the last 180 years.”, reports the Mirror.
He further added: “Food is a prism through which you can see many things-history, society and economics.”
Tom, a renowned food writer with over two decades of experience, came into prominence during the May 2023 coronation of King Charles, and shares a close relationship with both his mother and stepfather.
His own children have even formed a heartwarming bond with the monarch, often referring to him as Uppa, in a term of endearment. “He is such a good, nice man,” said Parker Bowles.
“He has his own grandchildren, obviously. The children utterly adore him. From an early age, he’s read them stories, been there, and swung them around.”